A new perspective on fire prevention
health-and-home
When hundreds of families lost everything in the 2017 Knysna wildfires, we were there. To help give it all back. We know how quickly and easily fires start. And spread. Especially during dry and windy months. We know their power to devastate and destroy. But we also know the power of proactivity, to prevent and prepare for them. Doing so however requires a holistic approach.
That’s why we created the Three S System. We drew on a wealth of expert knowledge, which we summarised it into three key areas: safety measures, staying informed and prepared, and securing cover. Let’s begin:
Safety measures:
1. Install a fire prevention system – in addition to peace of mind, this can have an insurance benefit too. In showing us that you have taken precautionary steps to protect your property and belongings, you could enjoy a lower premium. Fire protection systems include:
a. Fire alarms and smoke detectors
b. Fire sprinklers and suppression systems
c. Fire extinguishers and fire blankets.
d. Fire-resistant building materials
Make sure to check that your systems are always in working order. This is critical as it may affect the outcome of a claim.
2. Clear roofs and gutters – this has a twofold benefit as it helps prevent fires and prevents the build-up of water after heavy rain, which can compromise the integrity of the roof.
3. Maintain your garden – make sure to regularly trim branches, clean away dry and dead leaves, and remove highly flammable plants from around your home.
4. Store fuel source smartly– keep gas, propane tanks, firewood and other flammable mate-rial far away from the home.
5. Wise wiring – ensure all electrical wiring is installed properly and is frequently inspected, and that there are no exposed wires.
6. Safely dispose of smoking material – avoid putting out cigarettes outdoors, and dispose of hot ash and other smoking materials, safely.
7. Braai responsibly – don’t light a braai near overhanging vegetation or on dry grass. If you’re lighting it under a lapa, ensure you are far away from the thatch roof. On very windy days, it’s best not to light a braai at all, as embers can easily be blown into surround-ing vegetation, which can catch fire.
8. In the event of a fire, go back to basics – alert the local fire department immediately, only tackle a fire if it’s safe to do so, STOP, DROP and ROLL if your clothes catch fire, never re-enter a house when it’s on fire, don’t open a door that’s hot to the touch and crawl as low as possible on the floor.
Staying informed and prepared:
1. Follow the forecast – weather conditions can change drastically and rapidly in the dry, windy season. So sign up for local alerts and weather updates. Act quickly and evacuate your home if there is a nearby fire. Even if you’re unsure, it’s better to be safe then take an unnecessary risk.
2. Yes, you need those community WhatsApp Groups – join and monitor community WhatsApp groups for fire alerts in the area. If you are aware of a fire, post about it on the group immediately.
3. Safety on speed dial – save relevant emergency numbers and keep them on speed dial. Ensure that your family does the same. Also share these numbers on community groups for those that don’t know them.
4. Shut off utilities – know how and where to turn off your home’s gas, water, and electricity. These utilities may be a hazard during a fire, so rather stay on the safe side and shut them off.
5. Escape planning – develop and practice an escape plan/fire drill with your family. Plan two ways out of every room and agree on a safe place to meet outside of the house.
6. Grab and go – prepare a bag (fire-resistant if possible) with important documents (like passports and IDs), medicines and other essentials. It should also include an emergency kit with a torch, first aid supplies, and bottled water. Keep this in a safe place and en-sure all your family members know where it is.
Securing cover:
Fire cover is critical – considering the damage and destruction fire can cause, in a matter of minutes, it’s imperative. So, make sure you secure the following cover from Auto&General, all of which includes fire cover:
- Buildings insurance
- Home contents insurance
- Comprehensive car insurance
- Portable possessions insurance
- Business insurance
Did you know that we also offer a bespoke Fire Assist benefit. In partnership with Fidelity Secure-Fire, we offer direct access to a private fire response service. This ensures that you receive critical assistance, as quickly as possible. You can easily access this benefit by calling a dedicated number, on the Auto&General app. We will cover the call-out fee and the cost of the service.* Find out more here.
The Three S System can help ensure that you are well prepared for a fire, informed of fire risks in your area, and covered against the high cost of fire damage.
